Definition
A factory reset returns an ASIC miner's software configuration to its out-of-the-box defaults. It clears the pool configuration, custom passwords, static network settings, and any tuning changes, then reverts the unit to requesting an address over DHCP. It is a routine first step when you inherit a used miner, lose access credentials, or need a clean baseline before troubleshooting a configuration problem.
How it is triggered
On most Antminer-class boards you power the unit on, then press and hold the physical reset button on the control board for roughly five seconds (some models specify a longer hold) until the status LEDs flash to acknowledge the reset. The miner reboots and requests a fresh DHCP lease, so its address will likely change. After a reset, IP Reporter or a network scan is the quickest way to find the unit again.
What it does and does not do
A factory reset only rewrites configuration; it does not reinstall the operating system or repair a corrupted image. If the unit will not boot at all, you need SD card flashing or a full firmware flash, not a reset. Because a reset wipes your settings, restore them afterward from a config backup rather than re-entering each value by hand.
For the full procedure and model differences, see our guide on resetting a miner to factory settings.
In Simple Terms
A factory reset returns an ASIC miner’s software configuration to its out-of-the-box defaults. It clears the pool configuration, custom passwords, static network settings, and any…